FOOTBALL HELPS OVERCOME GRIEF

14 October 2016

The loss of a family member, or close friend, is always difficult to cope with and in times of bereavement we look for solace and comfort from those around us, be that family members or friends and acquaintances.

Grief affects different people in different ways. Some of us like to be alone with thoughts of those who have passed away, others like to share and be comforted by those around them.

Bristol Rovers has always been regarded as a family club, so it’s no surprise that Gasheads look to their blue and white family for support when they lose a loved one.

In this week’s matchday programme we remember three members of the Gas family who have recently passed away and we pay tribute to Jim Burrow, Beryl Whitlock and Martin Belsten.

Martin’s grandson, Ashley is asking Gasheads at Saturday’s game to join him and his family and friends to join in a minute’s applause in the 78th minute of our game against Gillingham, as Martin was 78 at the time of his death.

Although permission from the club is not needed for this moving act of remembrance, we have been in dialogue with Ashley and are happy to advise all supporters why the one minute’s applause is taking place.